SALEM – Mr. Brian Michael Phelan, Sr., 67, a longtime resident of Salem and devoted husband of Deborah A. (Turcotte) Phelan, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 29th, 2022.

Born in Salem, Brian was the son of the late Robert M. and Dorothy M. (Arnold) Phelan. Raised and educated in Salem, he was a graduate of Salem High School, class of 1973.

Brian began his professional career working in the IT Department with the New England Telephone Company. Through many years and transitions, Brian retired from Verizon after spending over 26 years with the telephone company. In retirement, he continued to work hard, devoting over 15 years working for Salem State University- Maintenance Department, until the time of his passing. He respected his career knowing he was helping others and truly valued the many friendships he shared throughout his professions.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Brian was the ultimate family man. He enjoyed taking many trips to Walt Disney World and relished in creating happy and joyous memories with family and friends. An avid reader, Brian enjoyed visiting the library often to pick out a great book. When he was not in Disney or reading; you could find Brian relaxing on the couch enjoying Monty Python's Life of Brian or any New England sport teams with his beloved Boston Terrier, Bruin, resting on his lap. He will be greatly missed.

In addition to his wife Deborah, with whom he shared 36 years of marriage, Brian is survived by his children, Daniel J. Phelan and his significant other, Hilary Wolkan of Salem, Corey R. Phelan of Salem, Dawne M. Vincent of Salem and Brian M. Phelan II and his wife, Anne-Marie of Danvers; his grandchildren, Rebekah Vincent, Hannah Phelan, Eva Phelan, Eben Phelan and Beckett Phelan; his brothers, Keith M. Phelan and his wife, Beth of Salem and Robert M. Phelan, Jr. and his fiancé Anna Spencer of Salem; his constant canine companion, Bruin and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Brian was the brother of the late Scott M. Phelan.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to attend Brian's funeral service which will be held at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM on Friday, February 4th at 1 P.M. Visiting hours prior to his service from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. Masks are required at all events. In lieu of flowers, donations in Brian's memory may be made to the Jimmy Fund c/o Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168. To share a memory of offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

The Jimmy Fund/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
10 Brookline Place West, 6th FL, Brookline, MA 02445, Boston MA 02284-9168